Renewables climb up while fossil fuels fall down

The UK saw a rise in renewable energy generation in the third quarter of this year whilst production of fossil fuels dropped. According to the latest energy statistics published by […]

The UK saw a rise in renewable energy generation in the third quarter of this year whilst production of fossil fuels dropped.

According to the latest energy statistics published by DECC, fuel, oil and gas production fell by 7.3%, 12.1% and 11.3% compared to the same time last year.

The report suggests this was due to a result of maintenance work and “slowdowns” on a number of oil and gas fields.

Out of the electricity generated in the third quarter, gas accounted for 28.2% – its lowest third quarter share for 14 years – due to high prices, whilst coal accounted for 35.4% – its highest third quarter share for 14 years. Electricity generation from nuclear was at 22.3%.

In contrast, electricity generated from renewables increased by 2.6% to 11.7% in the third quarter of 2012. Offshore wind rose by 54% whilst onshore wind was up by 38% due to increased capacity. However, hydro output fell by 16% as a result of low rainfall in North Scotland.

The report also noted that for fixed usage levels of electricity of 3,300 kWh per annum, bills rose by £25 to £478 and for fixed consumption levels of gas of 18,000 kWh per year, it increased by £79 to £798.

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